Geospatial workshop helps high school students map out GIS careers

Rising 10th and 11th grade students interested in learning advanced mapping skills in the field of geospatial technology (GST) are invited to participate in an intensive, two-week workshop at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA). The Geo Leaders workshop at NOVA-Reston Center introduces students to the geospatial field, college-level studies and developing skills for the workplace.

GST joins three technologies: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and remote sensing (RS) to create visual and geographic representations of any subject matter. GST is a rapidly expanding field. Students will study techniques applicable to virtually any profession – from public health to real estate.

Instructors will assist students with critical-thinking assignments and independent research. The goal for the workshop is to familiarize students with geospatial concepts, computer software, data analysis and future career paths. Guest speakers will discuss how lessons in the workshop relate to jobs using GIS and geospatial technology. Students will learn how to build resumes, network, interview and make formal presentations.

Northern Virginia Community College is the largest institution of higher education in the Commonwealth of Virginia and one of America's largest community colleges. NOVA enrolls more than 75,000 students at its six campuses in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Springfield and Woodbridge, and through the Extended Learning Institute. For more information about NOVA and its programs or services, call 703-323-3000 or visit the College's Web site, www.nvcc.edu.